Yankees Notes: Hughes, Jeter, Burnett, Aceves, Thames

Yesterday was a showdown between two young starters with 9-1 records and the Yankees Phil Hughes came out on top of the Mets Mike Pelfrey as the Yanks beat the Mets 5-3. Now 10-1 Hughes looks like a strong candidate for the All-Star game.

Here are some notes:

Unfortunately for Hughes he may not be able to pitch in the All-Star game if he makes it because of a new rule that says pitchers who pitch the Sunday before the game are ineligible. Hughes is currently lined up to pitch that Sunday.

No word yet on if he will play today yet, but Derek Jetersat out yesterday’s game against the Mets because of a sore heel.

AJ Burnett has been dealing with a bruised foot, but he said that he feels fine after his most recent bullpen session and he expects to make his next start.

Alfredo Aceves (back) threw off a half mound yesterday. It’s another step in his rehab that currently has no timetable.

Marcus Thames has been hitting in the batting cages. It is possible that he’ll come off the 15-day DL as soon as he is eligible.

The Yankees are still hurting with Aceves out as he really hasn’t been replaced since he landed on the DL. Thames’ return will also be helpful as Huffman appears over-matched in his first stint in the majors.

Also, the Yankees may decided that it is best for the team to have Hughes skipped on the Sunday before the All-Star game. That way he’ll only pitch about one inning during the game and otherwise have a nice break giving his arm a rest. Or they may like that he’s pitching Sunday, can be named to the team, but kept from pitching in a game that doesn’t count.